Pectin. What is it and how is it used?

We often hear about the beneficial properties thatpossesses pectin. What it is, not everyone knows. To begin with, this is a bonding substance (polysaccharide), which is formed from galacturonic acid. It is found in many products of plant origin. These are fruits, vegetables, root crops and even algae.

Most often, its use is found in suchindustries like the food and pharmaceutical industries. In the factory, pectin is produced from marc remaining after processing of citrus fruits, apples, beets, as well as sunflower. Confectionery factories successfully apply all the beneficial properties of this substance in their activities. It is indispensable in the manufacture of candy (from which the filling is made), marmalade, drinks containing natural juice, marshmallow and even ice cream.

So, we found out where it comes from and wherepectin is applied. What it is now clear. You can proceed to the study of its useful properties. According to many experts, pectin helps the human body to get rid of various toxins. Performing his responsible work on the removal of toxins, he does not cause us any harm. Pectic substance has a positive effect on improving the state of the intestinal microflora and peristalsis, reducing cholesterol, and has an anti-inflammatory effect in case of a stomach ulcer.

Of course, you are probably interested in whatproducts contain pectin. What it is and what benefits brings, you already know. Products that occupy the first place in the number of pectin, belong to the genus Citrus. This is a lemon, and an orange, and mandarin, and more specifically, their peels. Second place can be given to such famous fruits as apples. Then come carrots, apricots, cherries, and so on.

Well, here we come to the moment whenthe question arises: how to cook pectin at home? As mentioned above, many products contain it, but the most common of those used for self-cooking is an apple. Why this particular fruit? It is the most accessible among the rest and is rather simple in processing and preparation.

How to make pectin from apples, you will learn from the recipe below. First of all, you need to find out what we need for this. Here is a list of ingredients and utensils used for cooking:

- 1 kilogram of apples;

- 125 milliliters of water;

- knife;

- pan, having a thick bottom;

- sieve (not metal).

The recipe is simple enough.Pure apples are cut into 8 pieces, along with the peel and seeds. Then the prepared fruit is placed in a pan and poured the right amount of water. The resulting mixture boils on the fire for about 25 minutes with constant stirring. After the cooked apples have cooled, it is necessary to pour them into a sieve. Juice, which will drain into the prepared container, contains a large amount of pectic substance.

Но для того, чтобы получить пектин-порошок, need to evaporate excess liquid. To do this, the container with the juice is placed in the oven and heated until the water evaporates. The result of the above actions will be pectin - a dark powder. On a consistence it is similar to icing sugar. Store the resulting product should be tightly closed glass jars in a dry and cool place.

Now you know how to get pectin. What is it, you also know. Now this question will not put you in a dead end, and you can share the received information with your friends.